"Our jobs as coaches is to get them ready for varsity football as fast as we can," DePew says. "Nothing will do it like a game." I'd love to get a game in that didn't count so I could get a feel for the whole thing. That's what a scrimmage is for.

Offensively, the Railroaders return key starters from last season. Noah Follett will run the offense at quarterback, and Bo Davis is a playmaker at both running back and linebacker. Ryan Vandzende and Dustin Underwood lead the receiver corp. DePew says the offensive line is quicker.

"We'll be a little hesitant at first," Davis says. "I really think that even after the first series or quarter, we'll be ready to go."

DePew plans to simplify the offense to help develop a team that lacks experience in some areas.

"I'd love to get a game in that didn't count so I could get a feel for the whole thing," DePew adds. "That's what a scrimmage is for."

First stop on Day 3 of football practice, Garrett, experienced at QB, some newcomers could play key roles, optimism reigns